No blueprint, no limits: How the prestige team came to be

The prestige team has been evolving for over 20 years, starting with a simple idea: what if we created a business within this business?

It was a conversation between Darren Krongold, Sally Zelman and Phillip Kingston that sparked it all – an ambition to strengthen their presence in the prestige market while developing young talent along the way.

That vision led to the formation of what is now known as the prestige team – based out of the Caulfield office and recognised for its dynamic blend of experience and fresh perspectives. Over time, new leaders like Daniel Fisher and Joel Ser joined the fold, bringing fresh energy and insight into an ever-changing market.

‘We’ve got a grip on the whole market, from one-bedroom homes to $20 million manors – and everything in between,’ Joel says.

But has the team achieved what it set out to do?

‘There’s no formula,’ Darren reflects. ‘We just focus on our people – our team and our clients – and, so far, it’s worked.’

 

 

What’s in a name: The meaning of prestige

Prestige (noun): denoting something that arouses widespread respect or admiration.

That’s what you’d find if you were to look the word up in the dictionary. But, if you were to ask the Gary Peer prestige team, the definition is a little more nuanced.

‘I think we all have different views on it,’ Darren admits. ‘I come from a building background, so to me, prestige is all about structural quality. I love handling the best of the best properties.’

For Joel, prestige refers more to the team itself. ‘My view on it is more about having a big team with big resources,’ he shares. ‘I’m all about market dominance. And between us, no one sells more properties in Caulfield North.’

Daniel agrees. ‘But we also all adopt the mindset that nothing is too big or too small. We just want to look after our clients the best we can, because that relationship is what we care about the most.’

 

The people powering prestige: Meet the team

So, who makes up this dream team?

Alongside Darren, Daniel and Joel are Ben Rothschild, Idan Gutman, Kevin Huang, Rheno Pabillore, Liam Elbaum, Aliza Szylit and Mariam David.

‘It’s quite a big team – and quite a few personalities!’ Daniel laughs.

Each member brings something unique to the table. Take Rheno, for example, who made the move from the rental department – or Kevin, who came from our Bentleigh office – both of them bringing a wealth of experience.

‘Kevin’s Chinese background has been a real game changer for our team,’ Darren says. ‘He brings a deep understanding of the culture and community, which has opened up new doors for us. It’s been incredibly valuable.’

And Ben, a company veteran of 20 years, who stepped into a senior leadership role in this new team.

‘Idan, who’s been with the company for 6 years, took a 12-month sabbatical to travel the world before returning to the fold,’ explains Darren. ‘And then there’s my nephew, Liam, who started his career 12 months ago – but is already showing natural talent and sharp instincts.

‘But none of us would be anywhere without the amazing Aliza and Mariam,’ Darren adds. ‘They work in administration and basically run our lives.

‘Aliza’s been with me for nearly 16 years – which is rare these days. She knows how I think before I even say a word. And Mariam’s been with us for 8 years now – she’s sharp, reliable and keeps everything running smoothly.’

With a proud smile, he gestures around the room. ‘So, that’s the team!’

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pioneering The Gary Peer Way: The prestige team’s approach

Raised under the guidance of our co-founders, Gary and Phillip, our prestige team shares a deep-rooted set of values.

‘You could be the best agent in the world, but if you’re not a nice person, real estate isn’t for you,’ Joel explains. ‘Success requires hunger and drive, but above all, it’s about how clients feel throughout the process.’

That philosophy shapes everything in the prestige team – with collaboration at the heart of their approach.

‘People think real estate agents work solo, but we collaborate on every listing,’ Daniel says. ‘No one walks into an appointment without workshopping it first.’

With experience and an open-door policy on their side, no issue goes unsolved for long. And they really do take that open-door policy seriously!

‘These two are my second wives,’ Joel quips, nodding to Darren and Daniel. ‘For years, Darren was the last person I’d say goodnight to,’ Daniel adds.

Darren grins. ‘That’s just how we work – we support each other, always. No matter the time.’

 

Born and bred: What sets our team apart?

One of the best parts of our Gary Peer prestige team? They all live within a 2km radius of the office.

‘We live and breathe this area,’ Joel says. ‘We’re very much involved in the community because it’s ours. Many of us even grew up here.’

And it’s that commitment to the community that gives this team its edge.

‘Our reach and resources in southeast Melbourne are second to none,’ Daniel explains. ‘There isn’t an avenue between us that we can’t target. Whatever the property is, whoever the client is, we know we can find the right buyer and give everyone a great experience.’

So, what do our clients think?

‘The highest compliment for us is recurring business or referrals,’ Darren shares. ‘And that’s where most of our business comes from.’

 

The sky is the limit: What’s next for the prestige team?

With a sharp, driven team, the future of prestige real estate at Gary Peer has never looked stronger.

‘We’re always finding new ways to improve – training twice a week, holding regular meetings and mentoring our newer agents,’ Joel shares. ‘Complacency isn’t in our DNA.’

‘We want our younger agents to grow, maybe even lead their own teams one day,’ Darren explains. ‘Helping them become the best agents they can be ensures we’re offering an exceptional experience to every client who walks through our doors.’

But at the same time, this team is embracing the bond they’ve built.

‘Mariam’s wedding is coming up – which we’re all incredibly excited to be there for,’ Joel says. ‘And Rheno’s got another boxing match soon!’ Daniel adds. ‘So, obviously, we’ll be there to cheer him on as well.’

Because for the prestige team, success at work isn’t just about real estate – it’s about support. Always.

 

Are you interested in joining our prestige team? We’re ready to meet you. So own your career – with Gary Peer.